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SHE LEADS: EMPOWERING WOMEN IN THE MENA

The excitement was palpable on Day 1 of the SHE LEADS: EMPOWERING WOMEN IN THE MENA workshop in Amman, Jordan! This incredible gathering brought together a dynamic group of women entrepreneurs from Morocco, Lebanon, Egypt, and Jordan, all ready to elevate their leadership skills and make their mark on the business world.

It’s worth noting that this workshop is the same empowering program that kicked off back in October 2024, where Group 1 laid the foundation for a transformative journey. Now, the whole group has come together, creating a powerful cohort of 17 women from across the MENA region, each bringing her own unique experiences, challenges, and dreams to the table. This workshop marks an exciting next step for the group as they grow together, support each other, and work toward their collective leadership potential!

Kicking Off with Passionate Presentations

The day began with a series of high-energy business presentations that had everyone in the room buzzing with excitement. Each participant took the stage to share their unique vision, mission, and what sets their business apart. From innovative startups to impactful social enterprises, these women showcased their dreams and ambitions in a way that left everyone inspired and ready for what was to come.

Building Business Strategies with SWOT Analysis

The fun didn’t stop there! After the business introductions, the group dove into the heart of strategy-building with a session on SWOT analysis. Participants took a deep dive into their businesses, identifying their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. It was a productive and engaging session where everyone shared insights, brainstormed solutions, and began to map out the future of their businesses.

Risk Management: A New Way to Think About Challenges

What’s an entrepreneur without a plan to manage risks? The day’s second major session on Risk Management had participants exploring ways to identify potential risks and come up with strategies to mitigate them. It was eye-opening for many, as they learned how to think about business risks in a new way—focusing on solutions, not just problems.

Evening of Inspiration: Dinner with Industry Leaders

The energy didn’t fade as the evening rolled in! On November 30th, the participants enjoyed a special Business Dinner , where they had the opportunity to meet and connect with three incredible industry leaders:

• Ms. Dina Khayyat, a powerhouse with over 30 years of experience and a former board member of the Jordanian Garment and Textiles Exporters Association, who was also named one of Forbes’ most powerful Arab women.
• Ms. Suha Bakir, the dynamic CEO and Partner at Atlas Furniture Manufacturing, who has made a name for herself in leadership and innovation.

The evening was filled with inspiring stories, thoughtful advice, and new connections that will undoubtedly stay with the participants long after the workshop ends.

Day 2: Field Visit to The Idea Chamber – A Hands-On Experience

Day 2 took the participants out of the classroom and into the real world with a field visit to The Idea Chamber, a renowned independent nonprofit organization based in Jordan. The visit gave the women a firsthand look at best practices and operational strategies in action.

The Idea Chamber is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs with innovative business solutions, making it the perfect place for the participants to learn from real-world experiences. The visit sparked great discussions and allowed the group to see how other entrepreneurs navigate challenges, create impact, and drive sustainable business growth.

A Workshop to Remember

The SHE LEADS: EMPOWERING WOMEN IN THE MENA workshop is more than just a professional development event—it's a celebration of female entrepreneurship and leadership. As Day 1 wrapped up, it was clear that this workshop was only the beginning. The energy, the ideas, and the support from fellow participants and mentors created a powerful environment for growth, and the best is yet to come!

Now that the full cohort of 17 participants from across the MENA region has come together, the possibilities are endless. These women are ready to push boundaries, share knowledge, and lead the way toward a brighter future for women entrepreneurs everywhere.